gamcheon culture village
See Busan's beauty through arts
by local residents

Nice view of Gamcheon Village at early evening

colorful gamcheon culture village

Gamcheom Culture Village is a housing area located by the hillsides in Busan overlooking its blue sea. The small houses formed like terraces with striking colors in addition to the arts and sculptures everywhere in the ‘now-famous’ village.

Some nicknamed Gamcheon Culture Village as the “Macchu Picchu of Busan” due to some features you might have already guessed.

The village houses were built by residents who were formerly “outcasted” by society. They lacked the necessities and couldn't afford to secure their places in the fast-developing economy of the country.

As these people settled down in this area for quite some time now, they were able to beautify and transform their environment innovatively through art forms.

Most of the art forms you can find and enjoy with include murals, sculptures, paintings, rainbow staircases, colorful houses, among others.

At one glance, you might say that it is because of the vibrant art that turns the village popular.

However, I would say that it is due to how the villagers transform their way of looking at life (maybe difficulties for this matter). It is their willingness to uplift their lives from difficulties by seeing the beauty around them and within them.

They see goodness despite the conditions of their place. They see the hope behind the seemingly hopeless environment.

Statues by the roadside of Gamcheon

They have gone beyond the stigma that the society associated with them. They believe that they are more than what others think of them!

Arts and colors are reflections of what they experience and see in life.

They are talented. Creative. Happy. Proud of what they do!

OK… enough with that sermon!

Personally, I had mixed feelings about the place probably because I went there when it was already dark.

On the other hand, I was very delighted to see the lights emitting from each house. So took I my camera to take a few shots and checked if I got them properly.

However, when I tried to get into the narrow alleyways, I was feeling a bit scared. Maybe afraid of getting lost, bitten by a dog (I heard them barking), and the corners were dimly lighted.

I think, and I strongly suggest, that visitors should explore the area during broad daylight so that you will see the arts and other innovative things they implemented all around in the village.

Now, if you wish to see more and be guided to experience fully what they can offer, please see the information below.

activities & offers

There is a center in Gamcheon Culture Village where you can join an activity to learn more about the place, culture, and other offers.

Gamcheon Culture Village Experience Program is the thing. Basically, you will be exposed to museums, art shops, local food, and participate in a workshop.

Phones: +81-51-204-1444; +82-70-4485-7405

Songdo Skywalk near Gamcheon Village

Facilities and Services

The whole village is huge, and you cannot cover them in a day by exploring each alleyway. What you can do is use the guide about the village to discover the more interesting features.

The facilities include…

Information Center
Mini Museum
Art Shop / Mini Shop
Cafe
Restaurant
Workshops (for learning arts and local talents)

If you need more explanations about the village, you may call them through this number: +82-51-291-1444

getting to gamcheon culture village

Just like I did, you can also take a bus to anywhere in the village area or at the entrance area of the village.

Bus
From Goejeong Station of Subway Line 1, go to Exit 6 then take the local bus Sakha 1 or Sakha 1-1 going to Gamcheon Elementary School and get of that school’s bus stop.

From Toseong Station of Subway Line 1, head to Exit 6 then take the local bus Sakha 1-1; Seogu 2 or Seogo 2-2 and get off at Gamcheon Elementary School Bust Stop.

View of the village on the hillside when evening comes

Accommodations Nearby

I guess there are no hotels near the village. (Maybe a homestay programme is being offered as well). Therefore, you have to stay at hotels near the village such as in Songdo Beach area.

You can also stay in Nampo District which is located a few minutes ride by bus or taxi. Nampo is where Songdo Beach, Songdo Skywalk, Songdo Marine Cable Car, shopping area, entertainments, and cultural features can be found.

Please, feel free to check out the hotels linked linked in case you like one of their offers.